Harrisburg Adoption Lawyers
Step-parents often consider legal adoption of a step-child to protect those strong emotional bonds by “making it official.” Just as couples who get married enjoy certain rights and benefits under the law because of their status, adoptive parents also have a protected legal status and enjoy all the same rights with respect to their child(ren) as natural parents. Step-parent adoptions in particular, as opposed to standard closed or open adoptions, can present unique questions, such as:
- Do both natural parents need to consent?
- What happens if the non-custodial parent does not consent?
- Are the rules different for step-parent adoptions than they are for other types of adoptions?
Generally, if the non-custodial parent consents or is deceased, step-parent adoptions can be fairly easy or at least less complex than other types of adoption. However, if the non-custodial parent does not consent, complex legal issues and protracted litigation can arise. Terminating the rights of a natural parent who does not consent, even where that parent does not have custody, can be very difficult depending on the situation. As in any custody matter, the best interests of the child will be closely examined.
Step-parents may also find themselves seeking visitation or custody rights in the context of divorce or death of the custodial spouse. In this situation, the step-parent would have to file a complaint for visitation or partial or primary custody, which can sometimes involve a good deal of litigation depending on the parties involved and the facts of the case.
It is important to have the assistance of attorneys who understand the issues, know the laws and statutes that apply, and can guide you through the legal process with compassion. The attorneys at Daley Zucker work with families to assure that step-parent adoptions go as smoothly as possible. If you are a step-parent considering adoption, contact us to learn how our attorneys can help you.
The attorney practicing in this area of law is:
Lindsay Gingrich Maclay
The law office of Daley Zucker Meilton Miner & Gingrich, LLC, with offices in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and Wormleysburg, Pennsylvania regularly represents businesses and individuals with Family Law, Estates, Guardianships, Bankruptcy, Employment Law, Insurance Law, Administrative Law, Business and Corporate Law, Commercial Litigation, Municipal Law and Real Estate matters throughout Central Pennsylvania, including Harrsiburg East Shore, Harrisburg West Shore, Dauphin County, Cumberland County, York County, Lancaster County, Perry County, Juniata County, Mifflin County, Centre County, Adams County, Franklin County, Fulton County and Schuylkill County.
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